When the pregnant woman develops changes caused by pregnancy, the ...

[Collmarie]

When the pregnant woman develops changes caused by pregnancy, the nurse recognizes that the darkly pigmented vertical midabdominal line is the:
 
  a. epulis.
  b. linea nigra.
  c. melasma.
  d. striae gravidarum.

Question 2

You are performing assessments for an obstetric client who is 5 months pregnant with her third child. Which finding would cause you to suspect that the client was at risk?
 
  a. Client states that she doesn't feel any Braxton Hicks contractions like she had in her prior pregnancies.
  b. Fundal height is below the umbilicus.
  c. Cervical changes, such as Goodell's sign and Chadwick's sign, are present.
  d. She has increased vaginal secretions.

[orangecrush]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The linea nigra is a dark pigmented line from the fundus to the symphysis pubis. Epulis refers to gingival hypertrophy. Melasma is a different kind of dark pigmentation that occurs on the face. Striae gravidarum (stretch marks) are a different kind of line caused by lineal tears that occur in connective tissue.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Based on gestational age (20 weeks), the fundal height should be at the umbilicus. This finding is abnormal and warrants further investigation about potential risk. With subsequent pregnancies, multiparas may not perceive Braxton Hicks contractions as being evident compared with their initial pregnancy. Cervical changes such as Goodell's and Chadwick's signs should be present and are considered a normal finding. Increased vaginal secretions are normal during pregnancy as a result of increased vascularity.

[Collmarie]

Excellent

[raenoj]

Gracias!